When a student studying abroad passes on due to any reason, his friends are faced with the task of sending the mortal remains back home, the cost of which runs into thousands of dollars. Repatriation insurance helps in such a situation, by not just paying for the repatriation, but also helping with the procedures and processes.
In most cases, the student does not have to decide whether to purchase medical repatriation insurance, because the college requires it (for F1 students) or the government requires it (for J1 students). The college will require proof of adequate medical repatriation insurance, which can be sent across by the insurer.
Many student health insurance plans also have repatriation benefits; however, it is best to check with the student insurance whether repatriation benefits are included. Specific evacuation and repatriation insurance is especially useful if the student does not have insurance with repatriation benefits, or if the student has health insurance from his/her home country.
Even if the plan is called a repatriation of remains insurance plan, other benefits are usually included. Some plans offer evacuation insurance, accidental death and dismemberment benefits, and personal liability insurance as well.
If the plan holder does pass on or needs to be evacuated, bringing the repatriation benefits into force, there is usually no co-insurance or deductible for the surviving family or friends to worry about. However, personal liability insurance will feature some deductible, depending on the plan chosen.
Some plans also offer emergency reunion benefits to bring a close family member to the bedside of the plan holder, if need be and the return home of minor children accompanying the plan holder in case the minor is left alone as a result of hospitalization.
When repatriation needs to be done, either the body of the deceased can be sent home, or the cremation performed in the U.S. and the ashes sent home. The insurer will help with all the requisite processes, whichever option is chosen.
Repatriation of remains may not be a favourite topic for people, especially students with their whole lives ahead of them. However, purchasing insurance for repatriation will ensure that everyone is prepared financially for any eventuality.
Paoli Symmons frequently writes about insurance repatriation.